John Hall Wellness Garden is a peaceful community wellbeing garden in the heart of Leek, Staffordshire. Operated by Rethink Mental Illness, the garden supports mental health, wellbeing, and community connection through nature, gardening, creativity, and shared activities.
More than a place to relax, the garden offers opportunities to grow, learn, and connect. Through hands-on experiences in the polytunnel (similar to a greenhouse), garden spaces, café, and workshops, people develop practical skills, confidence, and a renewed sense of purpose while reconnecting with nature.
The garden is cared for by a small staff team, supported by dedicated volunteers and Friends of the Garden (FOGs). Together, over 40 people bring the space to life. The aim is to become increasingly self-sufficient, supported by volunteers, local businesses, Staffordshire Moorlands District Council, and Rethink.
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Every role, whether in the garden, café, or behind the scenes, helps maintain a safe, welcoming, and thriving space.
Creating opportunities - grow, learn and connect
John Hall Wellness Garden offers meaningful opportunities for growth and learning. Our polytunnel and growing areas help participants develop horticultural skills, explore sustainable practices, and gain a strong sense of achievement through hands-on work.
The Gardeners Rest Café provides valuable work-based experience, helping people build skills in customer service and food preparation while growing confidence in a supportive environment. For many, it’s a stepping stone to employment or training, and a welcoming social hub where connections thrive.
Together, these spaces create a nurturing environment where people feel valued, capable, and connected, often for the first time in a long while.
Turning challenges into opportunities
In 2025, John Hall Wellness Garden faced challenges that highlighted the strength of our community. After a severe storm brought down a mature tree, staff, volunteers, and Friends of the Garden (FOGs) came together to clear the area safely and reuse the fallen wood. The tree was transformed into handmade gifts, decorations, and coasters in their workshop, turning loss into creativity and promoting sustainability.
As winter reduced visitor numbers, the team adapted again by converting an old tool shed into a mini gift shop using reclaimed materials. In just two weeks, the shop raised £400, providing vital income and a shared sense of achievement.
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The fallen tree became a symbol of renewal, bringing hope, confidence, and purpose as we moved toward a new year.
A shared journey towards wellbeing
Everyone who comes to John Hall Wellness Garden has their own story, but all are united by the belief in the power of nature, community, and meaningful activity.
The garden continues to create lasting impact, helping people build skills, form friendships, reconnect with the environment, and take positive steps towards improved wellbeing and mental health. Together, we are growing a community that truly cares.